That degree will also allow him to be able to play with any college basketball program next year -- including a Division I program.

Some rumored destinations for Carlino, a native of Arcadia, Arizona include Saint Mary’s, Gonzaga -- two schools he considered when he transferred from UCLA -- and Arizona State in his home state.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity Coach Rose and his staff have given me,” Carlino said in a statement. “I’m also grateful for my teammates, professors and advisors for making my time at BYU such a great experience and for helping me grow so much as a person. Thank you to the fans that have given me so much support. I feel very blessed that I was able to represent BYU.”

Carlino’s career scoring averages hovered between about 11 and 13 points per game. His best year was in fact his recently completed junior year, when he scored 13.7 points and averaged four assists per game.

Nobody will ever know what Carlino could have done for the Cougars in 2014-15 -- there were rumors that Carlino was unhappy with his playing time and role in the team.

But BYU head coach Dave Rose said nothing about any of that in his statement to the media.

“We’re really grateful for Matt’s contribution to the success of our program over the last three years,” Rose said. “We wish Matt and his family the very best in their future endeavors. Matt was a great teammate and will be missed by the coaching staff and players.”

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Brian Shaw is a veteran, award-winning sportswriter, commentator and editor. His work has appeared on Yahoo! Sports, ESPN, The Billings Gazette, The Salt Lake Tribune, Deseret News and on sports Internet sites and blogs. He has also been an editor and general assignment reporter at many newspapers including The Salt Lake Tribune and Salt Lake City Weekly, He is a graduate of The University of Montana's School of Journalism. You may contact Brian with your comments and questions.